metallic

adjective

me·​tal·​lic mə-ˈta-lik 

1

a

: of, relating to, or being a metal

b

: made of or containing a metal

c

: having properties of a metal

2

: yielding metal

3

: resembling metal: such as

a

: having iridescent and reflective properties

metallic paint

b

: having an acrid quality like that of metal

the tea has a metallic taste

4

a

: having a harsh resonance : grating

a metallic voice

b

: having an impersonal or mechanical quality

a metallic smile

metallically

mə-ˈta-li-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of metallic in a Sentence

We chose a paint with a metallic luster.

The medicine has a metallic taste.

Silver is a metallic element.

the metallic screech of the car's brakes

Recent Examples on the Web

These suitcases have an air of sophistication about them, likely thanks to the muted metallic color palette, offset ribbing on the durable exterior, and telescoping handle made for easy maneuvering. —Lauren Bonney, Travel + Leisure, 28 Nov. 2024

To reinforce The Standard’s 25th silver anniversary, a specific room will reinforce one (metallic disco) theme in common, in addition to a Wabi Sabi and Glam concept. —Erica Wertheim Zohar, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024

The blast wave nevertheless tossed all of his stock into a jumble of shower handles and hoses, boxes of masking tape and home repair tools — all covered in fine, metallic gray dust. —Nabih Bulos, Los Angeles Times, 27 Nov. 2024

In theory, a heavy metal should be a metallic element that has a relatively high density or weight. —Lauren Leffer, Popular Science, 27 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Latin metallicus "of or relating to metal or mines," borrowed from Greek metallikós, from métallon "mine, metal entry 1" + -ikos -ic entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

metallic

adjective

me·​tal·​lic mə-ˈtal-ik 

1

: of, relating to, or being a metal

2

: containing or made of metal

3

: having a harsh or rasping sound

a metallic voice

Medical Definition

metallic

adjective

me·​tal·​lic mə-ˈtal-ik 

1

: of, relating to, or being a metal

2

: made of or containing a metal

3

: having properties of a metal